Virtual or augmented reality headsets having adjustable interpupillary distance

ABSTRACT

A virtual or augmented reality headset is provided having a frame, a pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces, and an interpupillary distance adjustment mechanism. The frame includes opposing arm members and a bridge positioned intermediate the opposing arm members. The adjustment mechanism is coupled to the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces and operable to simultaneously move the eyepieces to adjust the interpupillary distance of the eyepieces.

BACKGROUND

Technical Field

This disclosure generally relates to virtual or augmented realityheadsets, and more particularly to virtual or augmented reality headsetswherein the interpupillary distance of the eyepieces is adjustable.

Description of the Related Art

Virtual or augmented reality headsets have long been proven invaluablefor many applications, spanning the fields of scientific visualization,medicine and military training, engineering design and prototyping,tele-manipulation and tele-presence, and personal entertainment systems.In virtual reality systems, computer-generated virtual scenes aregenerally provided on an opaque display. In mixed and augmented realitysystems, computer-generated virtual scenes or objects are combined withthe views of a real-world scene on a see-through display. In manyvirtual or augmented reality headsets, virtual or augmented scenes aredisplayed on separate eyepieces. The interpupillary distance between theoptical centers of such eyepieces are often fixed, and corrections thatmay be needed to adjust for variations in users having differentinterpupillary distances is made via software to provide correctivedisplay adjustments. In some instances, the interpupillary distancebetween the optical centers of eyepieces may be mechanically adjustable;however, in such instances, adjustment devices can suffer from variousdrawbacks. For example, the adjustment mechanisms may be overly complex,bulky, lack precision and/or include a limited range of motion.

BRIEF SUMMARY

Embodiments described herein provide virtual or augmented realityheadsets with robust and efficient form factors that enable simultaneousmovement of viewer eyepieces along one or more linear rails to provideinterpupillary distance adjustment.

A virtual or augmented reality headset may be summarized as including aframe, a pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces, and anadjustment mechanism coupled to both of the pair of virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces. The frame may include opposing arm members, a bridgepositioned intermediate the opposing arm members, and a plurality oflinear rails. At least one linear rail may be provided at each ofopposing sides of the frame defined by a central reference plane. Thepair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces each have an opticalcenter and may be movably coupled to the plurality of linear rails ofthe frame to enable adjustment of an interpupillary distance between theoptical centers. The adjustment mechanism may be operable tosimultaneously move the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepiecesin adjustment directions aligned with the plurality of linear rails toadjust the interpupillary distance.

The virtual or augmented reality eyepieces may be movable between anarrowest configuration and a widest configuration, and a differencebetween the interpupillary distance in the widest configuration and theinterpupillary distance in the narrowest configuration may be betweenabout 20 mm and about 24 mm.

The adjustment mechanism may be coupled to the bridge of the frame andmay include a manipulable actuator coupled to the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces for selectively adjusting a linear position of each ofthe virtual or augmented reality eyepieces simultaneously. The frame mayfurther include a lock to selectively fix the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces in a selected linear position along the plurality oflinear rails.

The adjustment mechanism may include a manipulable actuator manuallyoperable by a user and one or more links physically may couple themanipulable actuator to the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces. Theheadset may further include a selectively removable cover that isselectively positionable to alternatively prevent access to themanipulable actuator and to provide access to the manipulable actuatorby the user. The manipulable actuator may be constrained to translateback and forth in directions perpendicular to the adjustment directionsaligned with the plurality of linear rails, and movement of themanipulable actuator in one direction may move the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces toward an expanded configuration while movement of themanipulable actuator in the opposite direction may move the virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces toward a collapsed configuration. Themanipulable actuator may be accessible to the user while the headset isworn.

The adjustment mechanism may include one or more linear actuators, suchas, for example, a piezoelectric linear actuator or a motor-driven leadscrew.

The bridge of the frame may include a nosepiece to engage a nose of theuser and support the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces in front ofthe user's eyes. The nosepiece may be removably coupleable to a baseportion of the bridge to selectively lock the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces in a selected position.

Each virtual or augmented reality eyepiece may be arcuate and mayinclude a medial end and a lateral end. The medial end may be positionedproximate the bridge of the frame and the lateral end may be positionedproximate a temple region of a respective one of the opposing armmembers. The frame may include a respective arcuate profile on each ofopposing sides of the central reference plane to at least partially nestwith a respective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces whenthe virtual or augmented reality eyepieces are in a narrowestconfiguration in which the interpupillary distance is at a minimum. Theplurality of linear rails may include at least two linear rails on eachof opposing sides of the frame to guide a respective one of the virtualor augmented reality eyepieces, and wherein, for each of the opposingsides of the frame, a first one of the linear rails may be locatedproximate the bridge to guide the medial end of the respective virtualor augmented reality eyepiece and a second one of the linear rails maybe located proximate the temple region to guide the lateral end of therespective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece. Each of the virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces may be coupled to at least two linear railsthat are offset fore and aft from each other.

The plurality of linear rails of the frame may include at least twolinear rails on each of opposing sides of the frame to guide arespective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces, andwherein, for each of the opposing sides of the frame, the two linearrails may be located proximate the bridge to guide a medial end of therespective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece and support therespective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece in a cantileveredmanner.

The plurality of linear rails of the frame may include at least twolinear rails on each of opposing sides of the frame vertically offsetfrom each other to guide a respective one of the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces. For each of the opposing sides of the frame, the atleast two linear rails and the arm member may form a fork structure. Foreach of the opposing sides of the frame, the two linear rails and aportion of the bridge may form a fork structure that supports therespective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces.

Each of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces may be supported by asingle respective linear rail underlying the eyepiece and supported inspace only by a connection to the single respective linear rail. Inother instances, each of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces maybe supported by a single respective linear rail positioned above ahorizontal plane defined by the optical centers of the pair of virtualor augmented reality eyepieces and supported in space only by aconnection to the single respective linear rail.

The bridge and the plurality of rails of the frame may be integrallyformed as a single-piece. The bridge, the opposing arm members and theplurality of rails of the frame may be integrally formed as asingle-piece.

The frame may further include a central frame portion comprising thebridge, and the opposing arm members may be hingedly connected to thecentral frame portion.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a headset according to one embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a portion of the headset of FIG. 1 shown ina collapsed configuration.

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a portion of the headset of FIG. 1 shown inan expanded configuration.

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the headset of FIG. 1 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 5 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 1 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 6 is a side elevational view of the headset of FIG. 1 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a headset according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 8 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 7 shown in acollapsed configuration.

FIG. 9 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 7 shown in anexpanded configuration.

FIG. 10 is a top plan view of the headset of FIG. 7 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 11 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 7 shown inthe collapsed configuration.

FIG. 12 is a side elevational view of the headset of FIG. 7 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a headset according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 14 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 13 shown in acollapsed configuration.

FIG. 15 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 13 shown inan expanded configuration.

FIG. 16 is a top plan view of the headset of FIG. 13 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 17 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 13 shown inthe collapsed configuration.

FIG. 18 is a side elevational view of the headset of FIG. 13 shown inthe collapsed configuration.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a headset according to anotherembodiment.

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a portion of the headset of FIG.19 shown in a collapsed configuration.

FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of a portion of the headset of FIG.19 shown in an expanded configuration.

FIG. 22 is a top plan view of the headset of FIG. 19 shown in thecollapsed configuration.

FIG. 23 is a front elevational view of the headset of FIG. 19 shown inthe collapsed configuration.

FIG. 24 is a side elevational view of the headset of FIG. 19 shown inthe collapsed configuration.

FIG. 25 is a perspective view of a portion of a headset shown in anexpanded configuration according to another embodiment.

FIG. 26 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the headset ofFIG. 25 showing an adjustable mechanism.

FIG. 27 is a partial cutaway perspective view of the headset of FIG. 25.

FIG. 28 is a front elevational view of a headset shown in an expandedconfiguration according to yet another embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, certain specific details are set forth inorder to provide a thorough understanding of various disclosedembodiments. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognizethat embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specificdetails, or with other methods, components, materials, etc. In otherinstances, well-known structures associated with virtual and augmentedreality systems have not been shown or described in detail to avoidunnecessarily obscuring descriptions of the embodiments.

Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification andclaims which follow, the word “comprise” and variations thereof, suchas, “comprises” and “comprising” are to be construed in an open,inclusive sense that is as “including, but not limited to.”

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “anembodiment” means that a particular feature, structure or characteristicdescribed in connection with the embodiment is included in at least oneembodiment. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or“in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification arenot necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, theparticular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined inany suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

FIGS. 1 through 6 show one example embodiment of a virtual or augmentedreality headset 10. The headset 10 includes a frame 12 and a pair ofvirtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30 b supported by the frame12. The frame 12 has opposing arm members 14 a, 14 b, a bridge 16positioned intermediate the opposing arm members 14 a, 14 b, and aplurality of linear rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b. More particularly, twolinear rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b are provided at each of opposingsides 22, 24 of the frame 12 defined by a central reference plane 26.

The pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30 b each hasan optical center 32 a, 32 b, a distance between which defines aninterpupillary distance IPD. The eyepieces 30 a, 30 b are movablycoupled to the plurality of linear rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b toenable adjustment of the interpupillary distance IPD as desired tocorrespond to or more closely correspond to an actual interpupillarydistance between the pupils of a wearer.

The headset 10 further includes an adjustment mechanism 34 coupled toboth of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30 b.The adjustment mechanism 34 is operable to simultaneously move theeyepieces 30 a, 30 b in adjustment directions 42, 44 aligned with thelinear rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b to adjust the interpupillarydistance IPD. The virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30 b aremovable between a fully collapsed or narrowest configuration (FIGS. 1, 2and 4-6) and a fully expanded or widest configuration (FIG. 3). Theframe 12, eyepieces 30 a, 30 b, and rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b areconfigured relative to each other such that a difference between theinterpupillary distance IPD in the fully expanded or widestconfiguration and the interpupillary distance IPD in the fully collapsedor narrowest configuration is between about 20 mm and about 24 mm. Assuch, each individual eyepiece 30 a, 30 b may be adjusted a distancebetween about 10 mm and 12 mm. It is appreciated, however, that in someembodiments, more or less adjustment may be provided.

A nosepiece 36 may be provided at the bridge 16 of the frame 12 toengage a nose of the user and support the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces 30 a, 30 b in front of the user's eyes during use. Thenosepiece 36 may be integrally formed as a portion of the bridge 16,fixedly secured to the bridge 16, or removably coupled to the bridge 16.In some embodiments, the nosepiece 36 may be removably coupleable to abase portion of the bridge 16 and impede the travel of the adjustmentmechanism 34 to lock the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30b in a selected position. In other instances, a lock may be provided oneach eyepiece 30 a, 30 b, to clamp to a respective one of the linearrails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b, or vice versa. In this manner, a user mayselectively unlock the eyepieces 30 a, 30 b for adjustment, adjust theeyepieces 30 a, 30 b transversely to a new interpupillary distance IPD,and lock the eyepieces 30 a, 30 b in place at the new interpupillarydistance IPD. The lock may include, for example, one or more clamps, setscrews, clips or other fasteners to impede movement of the adjustmentmechanism 34 and/or eyepieces 30 a, 30 b, or otherwise lock the same.The lock may be spring-biased toward a locked position.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1 through 6, each virtual or augmentedreality eyepiece 30 a, 30 b may be arcuate and include a medial end anda lateral end. The medial end may be positioned proximate the bridge 16of the frame 12 and the lateral end may be positioned proximate a templeregion of a respective one of the opposing arm members 14 a, 14 b. Theframe 12 may include a respective arcuate profile on each of opposingsides 22, 24 of the central reference plane 26 to at least partiallynest with a respective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces30 a, 30 b when the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30 bare in the fully collapsed or narrowest configuration (FIGS. 1, 2 and5-6) in which the interpupillary distance IPD is at a minimum.

The headset 10 may include a pair of linear rails 18 a, 20 a and 18 b,20 b on each of opposing sides 22, 24 of the frame 12 to guide arespective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30 b.In addition, for each of the opposing sides 22, 24 of the frame 12, afirst one of the linear rails 18 a, 18 b may be located proximate thebridge 16 to guide the medial end of the respective virtual or augmentedreality eyepiece 30 a, 30 b and a second one of the linear rails 20 a,20 b may be located proximate the temple region to guide the lateral endof the respective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece 30 a, 30 b. Inthis manner, each of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 30 a, 30b may be coupled to at least two linear rails 18 a, 20 a and 18 b, 20 bthat are offset fore and aft from each other. The linear rails may beprotruding rods or telescoping elements that project from a side of theframe 12. In some instances, the rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b may besubstantially or completely concealed from view when in the fullycollapsed or narrowest configuration and/or when in the fully expandedor widest configuration.

As can be appreciated from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 through 6,the eyepieces 30 a, 30 b, may be generally arc-shaped and may movetransversely along the linear rails 18 a, 18 b, 20 a, 20 b between anextreme medial position nearer the central plane 26 and an extremelateral position farther from the central plane 26. The eyepieces 30 a,30 b may be located at any position between the extreme end positionsand secured in place with a lock or other fastening mechanism orfixation method.

FIGS. 7 through 12 show another example embodiment of a virtual oraugmented reality headset 110. The headset 110 includes a frame 112 anda pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 130 a, 130 b supportedby the frame 112. The frame 112 has opposing arm members 114 a, 114 b, abridge 116 positioned intermediate the opposing arm members 114 a, 114b, and a plurality of linear rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a, 120 b. Moreparticularly, two linear rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a, 120 b are providedat each of opposing sides 122, 124 of the frame 112 defined by a centralreference plane 126. As shown in FIGS. 7 through 12, the linear rails118 a, 118 b, 120 a, 120 b may transition to curvilinear rails or railportions beyond the range of adjustability range of the eyepieces 130 a,130 b.

Again, the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 130 a, 130 beach have an optical center 132 a, 132 b, a distance between whichdefines an interpupillary distance IPD. The eyepieces 130 a, 130 b aremovably coupled to the plurality of linear rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a,120 b to enable adjustment of the interpupillary distance IPD as desiredto correspond to or more closely correspond to an actual interpupillarydistance between the pupils of a wearer.

The headset 110 further includes an adjustment mechanism 134 coupled toboth of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 130 a, 130 b.The adjustment mechanism 134 is operable to simultaneously move theeyepieces 130 a, 130 b in adjustment directions 142, 144 aligned withthe linear rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a, 120 b to adjust the interpupillarydistance IPD. The virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 130 a, 130 bare movable between a fully collapsed or narrowest configuration (FIGS.7, 8 and 10-12) and a fully expanded or widest configuration (FIG. 9).The frame 112, eyepieces 130 a, 130 b, and rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a,120 b are configured relative to each other such that a differencebetween the interpupillary distance IPD in the fully expanded or widestconfiguration and the interpupillary distance IPD in the fully collapsedor narrowest configuration is between about 20 mm and about 24 mm. Assuch, each individual eyepiece 130 a, 130 b may be adjusted a distancebetween about 10 mm and 12 mm. It is appreciated, however, that in someembodiments, more or less adjustment may be provided.

Again, a nosepiece 136 may be provided at the bridge 116 of the frame112 to engage a nose of the user and support the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces 130 a, 130 b in front of the user's eyes during use.The nosepiece 136 may be integrally formed as a portion of the bridge116, fixedly secured to the bridge 116, or removably coupled to thebridge 116. In some embodiments, the nosepiece 136 may be removablycoupleable to a base portion of the bridge 116 and impede the travel ofthe adjustment mechanism 134 to lock the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces 130 a, 130 b in a selected position. In other instances, alock may be provided on each eyepiece 130 a, 130 b, to clamp to arespective one of the linear rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a, 120 b, or viceversa. In this manner, a user may selectively unlock the eyepieces 130a, 130 b for adjustment, adjust the eyepieces 130 a, 130 b transverselyto a new interpupillary distance IPD, and lock the eyepieces 130 a, 130b in place at the new interpupillary distance IPD. The lock may include,for example, one or more clamps, set screws, clips or other fasteners toimpede movement of the adjustment mechanism 134 and/or eyepieces 130 a,130 b, or otherwise fix the same in place. The lock may be spring-biasedtoward a locked position.

With continued reference to FIGS. 7 through 12, each virtual oraugmented reality eyepiece 130 a, 130 b may be arcuate and include amedial end and a lateral end. The medial end may be positioned proximatethe bridge 116 of the frame 112 and the lateral end may be positionedproximate a temple region of a respective one of the opposing armmembers 114 a, 114 b. The frame 112 may include a respective arcuateprofile on each of opposing sides 122, 124 of the central referenceplane 126 that generally reflects that of the respective virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces 130 a, 130 b.

The headset 110 may include a pair of linear rails 118 a, 120 a and 118b, 120 b on each of opposing sides 122, 124 of the frame 112 to guide arespective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 130 a, 130b. In addition, for each of the opposing sides 122, 124 of the frame112, a first one of the linear rails 118 a, 118 b may be locatedproximate the bridge 116 at an upper region of the headset 110 to guidean upper portion of the medial end of the respective virtual oraugmented reality eyepiece 130 a, 130 b and a second one of the linearrails 120 a, 120 b may be located proximate the bridge 116 at a lowerregion of the headset 110 to guide a lower portion of the medial end ofthe respective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece 130 a, 130 b. Inthis manner, at least two linear rails 118 a, 120 a and 118 b, 120 b maybe provided on each of opposing sides 122, 124 of the frame 112 to guidea respective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 130 a,130 b. The two linear rails 118 a, 120 a and 118 b, 120 b on each side122, 124 may be located proximate the bridge 16 to guide the medial endof the respective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece 130 a, 130 b andsupport the eyepiece in a cantilevered manner. The two linear rails 118a, 120 a and 118 b, 120 b on each of opposing sides 122, 124 of theframe 112 may be vertically offset from each other and may form a forkstructure with a respective arm member 114 a, 114 b of the frame 112.The eyepieces 130 a, 130 b may be received within the tines of the forkstructure. In an alternate embodiment, the two linear rails 118 a, 120 aand 118 b, 120 b on each of opposing sides 122, 124 of the frame 112 anda portion of the bridge 116 may form a fork structure oriented away fromthe central plane 126 to support the eyepieces 130 a, 130 b.

As can be appreciated from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 through 12,the eyepieces 130 a, 130 b, may be generally arc-shaped and may movetransversely along the linear rails 118 a, 118 b, 120 a, 120 b betweenan extreme medial position nearer the central plane 126 and an extremelateral position farther from the central plane 126. The eyepieces 130a, 130 b may be located at any position between the extreme endpositions and secured in place with a lock or other fastening mechanismor fixation method.

FIGS. 13 through 18 show another example embodiment of a virtual oraugmented reality headset 210. The headset 210 includes a frame 212 anda pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 230 a, 230 b supportedby the frame 212. The frame 212 has opposing arm members 214 a, 214 b, abridge 216 positioned intermediate the opposing arm members 214 a, 214b, and a plurality of linear rails 220 a, 220 b. More particularly, asingle linear rail 220 a, 220 b is provided at each of opposing sides222, 224 of the frame 212 defined by a central reference plane 226. Asshown in FIGS. 13 through 18, the linear rails 220 a, 220 b maytransition to curvilinear rails or rail portions beyond the range ofadjustability range of the eyepieces 230 a, 230 b.

Again, the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 230 a, 230 beach have an optical center 232 a, 232 b, a distance between whichdefines an interpupillary distance IPD. The eyepieces 230 a, 230 b aremovably coupled to the plurality of linear rails 220 a, 220 b to enableadjustment of the interpupillary distance IPD as desired to correspondto or more closely correspond to an actual interpupillary distancebetween the pupils of a wearer.

The headset 210 further includes an adjustment mechanism 234 coupled toboth of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 230 a, 230 b.The adjustment mechanism 234 is operable to simultaneously move theeyepieces 230 a, 230 b in adjustment directions 242, 244 aligned withthe linear rails 220 a, 220 b to adjust the interpupillary distance IPD.The virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 230 a, 230 b are movablebetween a fully collapsed or narrowest configuration (FIGS. 13, 14 and16-18) and a fully expanded or widest configuration (FIG. 15). The frame212, eyepieces 230 a, 230 b, and rails 220 a, 220 b are configuredrelative to each other such that a difference between the interpupillarydistance IPD in the fully expanded or widest configuration and theinterpupillary distance IPD in the fully collapsed or narrowestconfiguration is between about 20 mm and about 24 mm. As such, eachindividual eyepiece 230 a, 230 b may be adjusted a distance betweenabout 10 mm and 12 mm. It is appreciated, however, that is someembodiments, more or less adjustment may be provided.

Again, a nosepiece 236 may be provided at the bridge 216 of the frame212 to engage a nose of the user and support the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces 230 a, 230 b in front of the user's eyes during use.The nosepiece 236 may be integrally formed as a portion of the bridge216, fixedly secured to the bridge 216 or removably coupled to thebridge 216. In some embodiments, the nosepiece 236 may be removablycoupleable to a base portion of the bridge 216 and impede the travel ofthe adjustment mechanism 234 to lock the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces 230 a, 230 b in a selected position. In other instances, alock may be provided on each eyepiece 230 a, 230 b, to clamp to arespective one of the linear rails 220 a, 220 b, or vice versa. In thismanner, a user may selectively unlock the eyepieces 230 a, 230 b foradjustment, adjust the eyepieces 230 a, 230 b transversely to a newinterpupillary distance IPD, and lock the eyepieces 230 a, 230 b inplace at the new interpupillary distance IPD. The lock may include, forexample, one or more clamps, set screws, clips or other fasteners toimpede movement of the adjustment mechanism 234 and/or eyepieces 230 a,230 b, or otherwise fix the same in place. The lock may be spring-biasedtoward a locked position.

With continued reference to FIGS. 13 through 18, each virtual oraugmented reality eyepiece 230 a, 230 b may be arcuate and include amedial end and a lateral end. The medial end may be positioned proximatethe bridge 216 of the frame 212 and the lateral end may be positionedproximate a temple region of a respective one of the opposing armmembers 214 a, 214 b. The frame 212 may include a respective arcuateprofile on each of opposing sides 222, 224 of the central referenceplane 226 that generally transitions with that of the respectiveeyepieces 230 a, 230 b.

The headset 210 includes a single linear rail 220 a, 220 b on each ofopposing sides 222, 224 of the frame 212 to guide a respective one ofthe virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 230 a, 230 b. The linear rail220 a, 220 b of each side 222, 224 may be located remote from the bridge216 and may underlay the respective eyepiece 230 a, 230 b to guide alower portion of the eyepiece 230 a, 230 b only.

As can be appreciated from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 13 through 18,the eyepieces 230 a, 230 b, may be generally arc-shaped and may movetransversely along the linear rails 220 a, 220 b between an extrememedial position nearer the central plane 226 and an extreme lateralposition farther from the central plane 226. The eyepieces 230 a, 230 bmay be located at any position between the extreme end positions andsecured in place with a lock or other fastening mechanism or fixationmethod.

FIGS. 19 through 24 show yet another example embodiment of a virtual oraugmented reality headset 310. The headset 310 includes a frame 312 anda pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 330 a, 330 b supportedby the frame 312. The frame 312 has opposing arm members 314 a, 314 b, abridge 316 positioned intermediate the opposing arm members 314 a, 314b, and a plurality of linear rails 318 a, 318 b. More particularly, asingle linear rail 318 a, 318 b is provided at each of opposing sides322, 324 of the frame 312 defined by a central reference plane 326. Asshown in FIGS. 19 through 24, the linear rails 318 a, 318 b may beconcealed or substantially concealed within the eyepieces 330 a, 330 b.

Again, the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 330 a, 330 beach have an optical center 332 a, 332 b, a distance between whichdefines an interpupillary distance IPD. The eyepieces 330 a, 330 b aremovably coupled to the plurality of linear rails 318 a, 318 b to enableadjustment of the interpupillary distance IPD as desired to correspondto or more closely correspond to an actual interpupillary distancebetween the pupils of a wearer.

The headset 310 further includes an adjustment mechanism 334 coupled toboth of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 330 a, 330 b.The adjustment mechanism 334 is operable to simultaneously move theeyepieces 330 a, 330 b in adjustment directions 342, 344 aligned withthe linear rails 318 a, 318 b to adjust the interpupillary distance IPD.The virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 330 a, 330 b are movablebetween a fully collapsed or narrowest configuration (FIGS. 19, 20 and22-24) and a fully expanded or widest configuration (FIG. 21). The frame312, eyepieces 330 a, 330 b, and rails 318 a, 318 b are configuredrelative to each other such that a difference between the interpupillarydistance IPD in the fully expanded or widest configuration and theinterpupillary distance IPD in the fully collapsed or narrowestconfiguration is between about 20 mm and about 24 mm. As such, eachindividual eyepiece 330 a, 330 b may be adjusted a distance betweenabout 10 mm and 12 mm. It is appreciated, however, that is someembodiments, more or less adjustment may be provided.

Again, a nosepiece 336 may be provided at the bridge 316 of the frame312 to engage a nose of the user and support the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces 330 a, 330 b in front of the user's eyes during use.The nosepiece 336 may be integrally formed as a portion of the bridge316, fixedly secured to the bridge 316 or removably coupled to thebridge 316. In some embodiments, the nosepiece 336 may be removablycoupleable to a base portion of the bridge 316 and impede the travel ofthe adjustment mechanism 334 to lock the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces 330 a, 330 b in a selected position. In other instances, alock may be provided on each eyepiece 330 a, 330 b, to clamp to arespective one of the linear rails 318 a, 318 b, or vice versa. In thismanner, a user may selectively unlock the eyepieces 330 a, 330 b foradjustment, adjust the eyepieces 330 a, 330 b transversely to a newinterpupillary distance IPD, and lock the eyepieces 330 a, 330 b inplace at the new interpupillary distance IPD. The lock may include, forexample, one or more clamps, set screws, clips or other fasteners toimpede movement of the adjustment mechanism 334 and/or eyepieces 330 a,330 b, or otherwise fix the same in place. The lock may be spring-biasedtoward a locked position.

With continued reference to FIGS. 19 through 24, each virtual oraugmented reality eyepiece 330 a, 330 b may include a straight-lineconstruction with flared lateral ends. A medial end of each eyepiece 330a, 330 b may be positioned proximate the bridge 316 of the frame 312 andthe lateral end may be positioned proximate a temple region of arespective one of the opposing arm members 314 a, 314 b. The frame 312may include a respective straight-line construction on each of opposingsides 322, 324 of the central reference plane 326 that generally mimicsthat of the respective eyepieces 330 a, 330 b.

The headset 310 includes a single linear rail 318 a, 318 b on each ofopposing sides 322, 324 of the frame 312 to guide a respective one ofthe virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 330 a, 330 b. The linear rail318 a, 318 b of each side 322, 324 may be located above a horizontalplane defined by the optical centers of the eyepiece 330 a, 330 b toguide an upper portion of the eyepiece 330 a, 330 b only. The eyepiece330 a, 330 b may hang from the rails 318 a, 318 b.

As can be appreciated from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 19 through 24,the eyepieces 330 a, 330 b, may have a generally straight-linedconstruction and may move transversely along the linear rails 318 a, 318b between an extreme medial position nearer the central plane 326 and anextreme lateral position farther from the central plane 326. Theeyepieces 330 a, 330 b may be located at any position between theextreme end positions and secured in place with a lock or otherfastening mechanism or fixation method.

FIGS. 25 through 27 show another example embodiment of a virtual oraugmented headset 410. The headset 410 includes a frame 412 and a pairof virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 430 a, 430 b supported by theframe 412. The frame has opposing arm members 414 a, 414 b, a bridge 416positioned intermediate the opposing arm members 414 a, 414 b, and anadjustment mechanism 434. The adjustment mechanism 434 includes a rotarydial 436 with a coaxial output shaft or pin 438 that extends axially androtatably couples to the bridge 416. A pair of gear pinions 440 a, 440 bare mounted to the output pin 438 and are positioned at opposite sidesof the rotary dial 436. Gear pinions 440 b may be a mirror image of gearpinion 440 a, simply reflected across a plane that bisects the rotarydial 436 and is perpendicular to a rotational axis thereof. Each of thegear pinions 440 a, 440 b are sized and shaped to releasably andsimultaneously engage a respective gear rack 442 a, 442 b. Each of thegear racks 442 a, 442 b are coupleable to a respective virtual oraugmented reality eyepiece 430 a, 430 b.

With continued reference to FIGS. 25 through 27, each opposing armmembers 414 a, 414 b includes a respective guide pin 444 coupledthereto. The guide pins 444 are positioned proximate the temple regionand, more particularly, between the temple and ear regions of a wearer.Each of the guide pins 444 extends through respective arm memberapertures 446 and is received by a respective eyepiece aperture 448. Acylindrical projection 450 extends inwardly from each eyepiece aperture448. The cylindrical projection 450 is sized and shaped to be slideablyreceived by the respective arm member apertures 446 when the headset 410is in a collapsed or narrowest configuration. In some embodiments, thearm member apertures 446 may include a counterbore or a countersink toallow the guide pin 444 head to sit at least flush with an interiorsurface of the opposing arm members 414 a, 414 b to substantially orcompletely conceal the guide pin 444 from view when in the fullycollapsed or narrowest configuration and/or when in the fully expandedor widest configuration. Further, in some embodiments, the opposing armmember apertures 446 may include bushings coupled thereto in order toreduce wear and friction, guide, or constrain the motion of the headset410. The bushings may be lubricated or unlubricated.

With continued reference to FIGS. 25-27, rotation of the gear pinions440 a, 440 b via the rotary dial 436 in a clockwise direction causes thegear pinions 440 a, 440 b to engage the respective gear racks 442 a, 442b. Such engagement moves the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 430a, 430 b approximately equal distances simultaneously and outwardlyrelative to the rotary dial 436. At the temporal or lateral end,moreover, the guide pins 444 assist in guiding the virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces 430 a, 430 b as they move outwardly relative to theopposing arm members 414 a, 414 b. Conversely, counterclockwise rotationof the rotary dial 436 causes the gear racks 442 a, 442 b to moveapproximately equal distances simultaneously and inwardly relative tothe rotary dial 436. Similarly, the guide pins 444 assist in guiding thevirtual or augmented reality eyepieces 430 a, 430 b as they moveinwardly relative to the opposing arm members 414 a, 414 b.

By manipulating the adjustment mechanism 434 to move the virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces 430 a, 430 b inwardly or outwardly, theinterpupillary distance IPD can be conveniently controlled by a user. Byway of example, in the illustrated embodiment of the headset 410, thegear racks 442 a, 442 b are sized and shaped to allow movement of thevirtual or augmented reality eyepieces 430 a, 430 b relative to therotary dial 436 such that a difference between the interpupillarydistance IPD in the fully expanded or widest configuration (FIGS. 25-27)and the interpupillary distance IPD in the fully collapsed or narrowestconfiguration is between 10 mm and about 12 mm. It is appreciated,however, that in some embodiments, more or less adjustment may beprovided.

To allow the user access to the rotary dial 436, the bridge 416 includesa recess 452 through which a portion of the rotary dial 436 protrudesoutwardly. The user may rotate the rotary dial 436 to adjust theinterpuppilary distance IPD until the optimal interpuppilary distanceIPD for the user is determined. Once the optimal interpuppilary distanceIPD is set, each of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 430 a,430 b can be locked in place through a lock. The lock may include, forexample, one or more clamps, set screws, clips or other fasteners toimpede movement of the adjustment mechanism 34 and/or eyepieces 430 a,430 b, or otherwise lock the same. The lock may be spring-biased towarda locked position.

The adjustable mechanism 434 may further include a cover 453 toreleasably attach to the recess 452 in the bridge 416. The cover 453 maysubstantially seal the adjustable mechanism 434 from the environment,such as water or moisture ingress, and may also selectively controlaccess to the rotary dial 436 during use. In some embodiments, the cover453 may include male connectors that can snap into place when matinglyreceived by a female connector located in the recess 452 of the bridge416. In other embodiments, the cover 453 may include any number of postsor pegs that may extend outwardly. The posts or pegs may be received byholes or dents in the recess 452 of the bridge 416 to releasably securethe cover 453 to the bridge 416. As can be appreciated from theforegoing, other mechanisms may be used to releasably attach the cover453 to the headset 410.

FIG. 28 shows another example embodiment of a virtual or augmentedheadset 510 in an expanded or widest configuration. The headset includesa frame 512 and a pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 530 a,530 b supported by the frame 512. The frame has opposing arm members 514a, 514 b, a bridge 516 positioned intermediate the opposing arm members514 a, 514 b, and a plurality of linear rails 518 a, 518 b. Moreparticularly, a single linear rail 518 a, 518 b is provided at each ofopposing sides 522, 524 of the frame 512 defined by a central referenceplane 526.

Again, the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 530 a, 530 beach has an optical center 532 a, 532 b, a distance between whichdefines an interpupillary distance IPD. The eyepieces 530 a, 530 b aremovably coupled to the plurality of linear rails 518 a, 518 b to enableadjustment of the interpupillary distance IPD as desired to correspondto or more closely correspond to an actual interpupillary distance IPDbetween the pupils of a wearer.

The headset 510 further includes an adjustment mechanism 534 coupled toboth of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces 530 a, 530 b.The adjustment mechanism illustrated in FIG. 28 includes a linearactuator device 560 to convert rotary motion into linear motion, such asa lead screw, jackscrew, ball screw, roller screw, or other types ofdevices that may mechanically convert rotary motion into linear motion.By way of example, FIG. 28 illustrates a lead screw with some of thehardware, such as a control knob, nuts, etc., removed for clarity. Thelinear actuator device 560 is coupled to a pair of links 562 a, 562 b.The links 562 a, 562 b are angularly spaced apart relative to each otherand about the central reference plane 526. At a lower end, the links 562a, 562 b are coupled to the respective linear rails 518 a, 518 b.

The adjustment mechanism 534 allows the user to manipulate theinterpupillary distance IPD by moving the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces 530 a, 530 b inwardly or outwardly relative to the adjustmentmechanism 534. The user can rotate the control knob of the linearactuator device 560 in a clockwise direction, which causes a linearextension of the linear actuator device 560 shaft. This linear extensioncauses an increase in the angular displacement of the links 562 a, 562 brelative to one another, resulting in an outward linear translation ofthe respective rails 518 a, 518 b and the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces 530 a, 530 b. Conversely, the user can rotate the control knobof the linear actuator device 560 in a counterclockwise direction tocause an inward movement of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces530 a, 530 b in a similar manner.

The adjustment mechanism 534 can be substantially or completelyconcealed from view by housing the adjustment mechanism 534 within thebridge 516. The bridge 516 may further include a recess to allow aportion of the control knob to protrude outwardly. A cover mayreleasably attach to the recess in the bridge 516. The cover maysubstantially seal the adjustable mechanism 534 from the environment,such as water or moisture ingress, and may also selectively controlaccess to the control knob during use. In some embodiments, the covermay include male connectors that can snap into place when matinglyreceived by a female connector located in the recess of the bridge 516.In other embodiments, the cover may include any number of posts or pegsthat may extend outwardly. The posts or pegs may be received by holes ordents in the recess of the bridge 516 to releasably secure the cover tothe bridge 516. As can be appreciated from the foregoing, othermechanisms may be used to releasably attach the cover to the headset510.

In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanisms described herein may becontrolled electro-mechanically. One or more motors may beelectro-mechanically coupled to the linear actuator device, such as alead screw, jack screw, ball screw, roller screw, etc. The rotatorymotion of the motors may be converted into linear motion through thelinear actuator device to cause inward or outward movement of thevirtual or augmented eyepieces. The motors may be a servo motor, steppermotor, or other types of electric motors. To control movement of thevirtual or augmented eyepieces, the motors may be electrically coupledto an electronic controller. The electronic controller may include amicrocontroller and a motor driver to control and drive the motors.Moreover, the microcontroller may comprise a microprocessor, memory, anda plurality of peripheral devices to form a system on a chip that may beapplicable for a wide variety of applications.

In some embodiments, the adjustment mechanism may include one or morepiezoelectric motors. The one or more piezoelectric motors may includepiezoelectric linear actuators, which may be coupled to the virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces to cause inward or outward movement of thevirtual or augmented reality eyepieces. To control movement of thevirtual or augmented eyepieces, the piezoelectric motors may beelectrically coupled to an electronic controller. The electroniccontroller may include a microcontroller and a piezoelectric motordriver to control and drive the piezoelectric motor. Moreover, themicrocontroller may comprise a microprocessor, memory, and a pluralityof peripheral devices to form a system on a chip that may be applicablefor a wide variety of applications.

Moreover, the various embodiments described above can be combined toprovide further embodiments. U.S. patent application Ser. No.61/891,801, filed Oct. 16, 2013, and U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/516,180, filed Oct. 16, 2014, are each incorporated herein byreference in their entirety and aspects of the embodiments can bemodified, if necessary, to employ concepts of the application to provideyet further embodiments.

These and other changes can be made to the embodiments in light of theabove-detailed description. In general, in the following claims, theterms used should not be construed to limit the claims to the specificembodiments disclosed in the specification and the claims, but should beconstrued to include all possible embodiments along with the full scopeof equivalents to which such claims are entitled. Accordingly, theclaims are not limited by the disclosure.

1. A virtual or augmented reality headset, comprising: a frame includingopposing arm members and a bridge portion positioned intermediate theopposing arm members; a pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieceseach having an optical center, the pair of virtual or augmented realityeyepieces movably coupled to the frame to enable adjustment of aninterpupillary distance between the optical centers; and an adjustmentmechanism coupled to both of the pair of virtual or augmented realityeyepieces and operable to simultaneously move the pair of virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces to adjust the interpupillary distance, theadjustment mechanism including a linear actuator physically coupled tothe pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces by a plurality oflinks which are arranged such that movement of the linear actuator in afirst direction causes the plurality of links to increase theinterpupillary distance between the optical centers of the pair ofvirtual or augmented reality eyepieces and movement of the linearactuator in a second direction opposite the first direction causes theplurality of links to decrease the interpupillary distance between theoptical centers of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces.2. The headset of claim 1 wherein the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces are movable between a narrowest configuration and a widestconfiguration, and wherein a difference between the interpupillarydistance in the widest configuration and the interpupillary distance inthe narrowest configuration is between about 20 mm and about 24 mm. 3.The headset of claim 1 wherein the adjustment mechanism is coupled tothe bridge portion and the linear actuator includes a user manipulablecontrol for selectively adjusting a position of each of the virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces simultaneously.
 4. The headset of claim 3,further comprising: a selectively removable cover that is selectivelypositionable to alternatively prevent access to the user manipulablecontrol and to provide access to the user manipulable control by theuser.
 5. The headset of claim 3 wherein the user manipulable control isconstrained to translate back and forth in directions perpendicular tohorizontal adjustment directions of the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces.
 6. The headset of claim 1 wherein the frame further includesa lock to selectively fix the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces ina selected position.
 7. The headset of claim 1 wherein the bridgeportion includes a nosepiece to engage a nose of a user and support thevirtual or augmented reality eyepieces in front of the user's eyes. 8.The headset of claim 7 wherein the bridge portion further includes abase, and wherein the nosepiece is removably coupleable to the base toselectively lock the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces in aselected position.
 9. The headset of claim 7 wherein the bridge portionfurther includes a base, and wherein the nosepiece is adjustably coupledto the base.
 10. The headset of claim 1, further comprising: a motorelectro-mechanically coupled to the linear actuator; and an electroniccontroller electrically coupled to the motor to control movement of thevirtual or augmented reality eyepieces via the motor, the linearactuator and the plurality of links.
 11. The headset of claim 1 whereineach virtual or augmented reality eyepiece is arcuate and includes amedial end and a lateral end, the medial end positioned proximate thebridge of the frame and the lateral end positioned proximate a templeregion of a respective one of the opposing arm members.
 12. The headsetof claim 11 wherein the frame includes a respective arcuate profile oneach of opposing sides of the central reference plane to at leastpartially nest with a respective one of the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces when the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces are in anarrowest configuration in which the interpupillary distance is at aminimum.
 13. The headset of claim 11 wherein the frame includes at leasttwo linear rails on each of the opposing sides of the frame to guide arespective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces, andwherein, for each of the opposing sides of the frame, a first one of thelinear rails is located proximate the bridge to guide the medial end ofthe respective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece and a second one ofthe linear rails is located proximate the temple region to guide thelateral end of the respective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece. 14.The headset of claim 1 wherein the frame includes at least two linearrails that are offset fore and aft from each other, each of the virtualor augmented reality eyepieces being coupled to the at least two linearrails.
 15. The headset of claim 1 wherein the frame includes at leasttwo linear rails on each of the opposing sides of the frame to guide arespective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces, andwherein, for each of the opposing sides of the frame, the two linearrails are located proximate the bridge portion to guide a medial end ofthe respective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece and support therespective virtual or augmented reality eyepiece in a cantileveredmanner.
 16. The headset of claim 1 wherein frame includes at least twolinear rails on each of the opposing sides of the frame verticallyoffset from each other to guide a respective one of the virtual oraugmented reality eyepieces.
 17. The headset of claim 16 wherein, foreach of the opposing sides of the frame, the at least two linear railsand the arm member form a fork structure.
 18. The headset of claim 16wherein, for each of the opposing sides of the frame, the two linearrails and a portion of the bridge form a fork structure that supportsthe respective one of the virtual or augmented reality eyepieces. 19.The headset of claim 1 wherein each of the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces are supported by a single respective linear rail of the frameunderlying the eyepiece.
 20. The headset of claim 19 wherein eachrespective eyepiece is supported in space only by a connection to thesingle respective linear rail of the frame underlying the eyepiece. 21.The headset of claim 1 wherein each of the virtual or augmented realityeyepieces are supported by a single respective linear rail of the framepositioned above a horizontal plane defined by the optical centers ofthe pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces.
 22. The headset ofclaim 21 wherein each respective eyepiece is supported in space only bya connection to the single respective linear rail of the framepositioned above the horizontal plane defined by the optical centers ofthe pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces.
 23. A virtual oraugmented reality headset, comprising: a frame including opposing armmembers and a bridge portion positioned intermediate the opposing armmembers; a pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepieces each having anoptical center, the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepiecesmovably coupled to the frame to enable adjustment of an interpupillarydistance between the optical centers; and an adjustment mechanismcoupled to both of the pair of virtual or augmented reality eyepiecesand operable to simultaneously move the pair of virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces to adjust the interpupillary distance, the adjustmentmechanism including a plurality of links, a motor coupled to theplurality of links, and an electronic controller electronically coupledto the motor for controlling the motor to adjust the interpupillarydistance between the optical centers of the pair of virtual or augmentedreality eyepieces via the plurality of links.